In the heart of Rendeng Village, Malo District, Bojonegoro Regency, a unique form of tourism is taking root, blending education, culture, and commerce in a way that could redefine community resilience and sustainability. This is the story of Wisata Edukasi Gerabah, or WEG, an educational pottery tourism initiative that has weathered the storms of the COVID-19 pandemic and is now poised to inspire similar ventures worldwide.
The brainchild of the local youth organization, Karang Taruna, WEG capitalizes on the community’s rich pottery-making heritage. The pottery crafted here is not just any pottery; it boasts a distinctive character, drawing inspiration from household utensils and interior elements, and adorned with unique paint colors. “Our pottery tells a story,” says Eva Elviana, lead author of a recent study published in *ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur* (translated as *ARTEKS: Journal of Architecture*). “It’s a narrative of our community’s history, culture, and resilience.”
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to WEG, as it did to many tourism-dependent communities. However, the resilience of the Rendeng Village community has been nothing short of remarkable. Elviana’s study, which employed a qualitative approach with a phenomenological lens, delved into the dynamics of this resilience. Through observations and interviews, she identified the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing WEG using the SWOT technique.
The findings are promising. WEG has demonstrated a robust ability to survive and thrive, even in the face of adversity. This resilience is not just about bouncing back; it’s about growing and evolving to support long-term sustainability. “Resilience is about more than just survival,” Elviana explains. “It’s about creating a better environment and a more sustainable future for our community.”
The commercial impacts of this research are profound. For the energy sector, which is increasingly focused on sustainability and community engagement, WEG offers a blueprint for fostering resilience in tourism-dependent communities. By supporting local crafts and cultural initiatives, energy companies can help create sustainable livelihoods and foster a sense of community ownership and pride.
Moreover, the study’s findings could shape future developments in the field of educational tourism. By understanding the dynamics of community resilience, tourism developers can create initiatives that are not only commercially viable but also socially and environmentally sustainable. This could pave the way for a new generation of tourism ventures that prioritize community well-being and cultural preservation.
As the world grapples with the ongoing impacts of the pandemic and the urgent need for sustainable development, the story of WEG serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration. It’s a testament to the power of community resilience and the potential of educational tourism to drive sustainability and economic growth. And with the insights gleaned from Elviana’s research, the future of WEG—and similar initiatives worldwide—looks brighter than ever.